Question

A client diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma has been prescribed pilocarpine ophthalmic drops. When the client asks the nurse how this medication lowers intraocular pressure, the nurse tells the client that the medication:

Constricts the Pupil (Miosis)
Dilates the Pupil (Mydriasis)
Increases Aqueous Humor Production
Decreases Aqueous Humor Drainage

Answer 1

Pilocarpine ophthalmic drops constrict the pupil and cause the ciliary muscle to contract, leading to the drainage of aqueous humor and a reduction in intraocular pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pilocarpine ophthalmic drops, when used to treat primary open-angle glaucoma, work by constricting the pupil (miosis) and causing the ciliary muscle to contract. This contraction opens perforations at the base of the cornea, allowing for the drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior compartment of the eye. By facilitating the drainage of aqueous humor, pilocarpine helps to reduce intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma.